Twenty Ways To Care for Caregivers

Twenty of the best tips and ideas collected from Caregivers and care managers of the Medicare Alzheimer's Project in Broward and Dade Counties, Florida.

• Laugh about something everyday 

• Take care of yourself physically. 

• Eat a well-balanced diet. 

• Talk with someone every day. 

• Let family and friends help. Give them printed material on memory disorders so they can better understand your relative. Give them a chance. 

• Give yourself permission to have a good cry. Tears aren't a weakness, they reduce tension.

• Exercise. A brisk walk counts. 

• Get adequate rest. 

• Try a bowl of Cheerios and milk before bed to promote sleep. 

• Avoid noisy and/or tension-filled movies at night. The late news itself can add to stress. Skip it.

• Reduce daily caffeine intake. 

• Get professional help if you feel your support system isn't adequate or if you feel overwhelmed. 

• Take a break very day, even if it's only 10 minutes alone in the backyard. 

• Explore community resources and connect yourself with them. 

• Listen to music. 

• Learn relaxation techniques. 

• Regularly attend one or more support groups and education workshops. 

• Give yourself a treat at least once a month: an ice cream cone....a new shirt or dress....a night out with friends....a flowering plant. 

• Read your Caregiver's Bill of Rights (and Today's Caregiver magazine) 
  Know your limitations.

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